Laboratory Medicine Program

Human chorionic gonadotropin, quantitative, tumour marker
(hCG, quant, tumour marker)

Clinical Decription:
Chorionic gonadotropin (CG) was formerly called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). CG is secreted by trophoblastic cells of the placenta during pregnancy. Early pregnancy Levels of CG between 5 and 25 IU/L may indicate early pregnancy. Correlation with other clinical findings (e.g., date of last menstrual period, results of pelvic exam, ultrasound results) may be useful in evaluation of early pregnancy. Changes in CG levels Early stages of a normal singleton pregnancy: levels of CG double approximately every 2 days Ectopic pregnancy: levels tend to be lower and have a longer doubling time Multiple gestation: levels tend to be higher than expected by dates and have a shorter doubling time Spontaneous abortion: falling levels Tumour marker CG may be elevated in a variety of tumours, including those involving the trophoblastic, e.g., hydatidiform mole and choriocarcinoma, and some testicular cancers.
<br/><em>Abbot 12000 Manuafacturer's Manual</em>

Method: MEIA; Abbott 12000

Component Tests Used: n/a

Reference Ranges Used:
< 2 IU/L.

Specimen Type: serum or plasma
Volume: 500 uL (minimum: 200 uL)

Shipping: serum or plasma sent frozen at -10C or colder

Special Instructions: Centrifuge and aliquot sample.

Testing Schedule(s): Monday through Friday 0900-1500 hrs.

Turnaround Time: 1 day

For more information, call 416.340.5227 or 1.866.865.5227